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Land Applications
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Process
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The Biosolids Composting
Process
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Compost is nutrient-rich, humus like
material derived from two forms of organic wastes: wood chips (left)
and biosolids (below). The SAWS Composting Program can divert up to
150,000 cubic yards of wood chips from landfills each year. |
| Biosolids are the by-product of
water recycling. The SAWS Composting Program can divert up to 208,000
cubic yards of biosolids from landfills each year. |
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Active compost pile. Biosolids and
wood chips are mixed together and allowed to sit in windrows. Biological
activity creates high temperatures inside the pile. The heat causes
steam to rise and destroys disease-causing organisms. |
| Finished product. Windrows are turned
five times over a period of 15 days while temperatures are maintained
above 131°F. The compost is then allowed to cure for 30 days more.
A screening process removes objects larger than 3/8" and produces
the finished product (right). |
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Landscape at the San Antonio Botanical
Center where composted biosolids have been used. The finished product
is applied on lawns, gardens, trees, public parks, etc. |
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